Laughing during a time like this can seem difficult and insensitive but it is actually one of the most important things humans can do during times of stress. Daily laughter supports our immune systems, reduces feelings of anxiety and depression, gives us a clearer mind space and allows us to connect with one another on a personal level. When we laugh we release endorphins and dopamine that makes us feel good and reduce the amount of circulating cortisol. Laughter also increases our pain tolerance and allows us to relieve feelings of danger.
Our PA Kristina Cadwell and her kids spend the last 10 minutes of their day going around in a circle telling jokes in bed after storytime. Listening to a 2-year-old tell knock-knock jokes is by far one of her favorite past times.
Other ways to incorporate laughter into your daily life are-choose a funny movie instead of a drama, virtually surround yourself with people that love to laugh and/or do a daily laughing meditation by sitting in a circle with your quarantine “family” or by yourself and laughing for 10minutes. Laughter is the best medicine.
